Phillies reportedly eyeing Craig Kimbrel before the trade deadline
The Major League Baseball trade deadline is rapidly approaching. Dave Dombrowski and the Phillies organization have been on record over the last few weeks saying that they are in a position to contend this year. There have been multiple reports stating that the Phillies will be aggressive before the deadline. A name at the top of the list for the Phillies is reportedly Cubs closer Craig Kimbrel.
Craig Kimbrel is a potential Hall of Fame closer. This season, Kimbrel has a 0.51 ERA, 0.679 WHIP, and 15.5 K/9 throughout 22 saves. Funny enough, Kimbrel is a fantastic performer against the Phillies as well, with a career opponent batting average of .192 against Philadelphia. Having this caliber of a player in your bullpen can not only transform it, but simply win games. The Phillies on the other hand, have blown 23 saves this season and are just a few away from tying a franchise record.
For the 2021 MLB season, Kimbrel ranks top 5 in ERA, WHIP, K/9, Save %, and saves amongst the MLB’s closers, clearly putting him at a very high level for the position. The Phillies haven’t had a consistent closer since Jonathan Paplebon. One can only hope Dombrowski is on the phone with Chicago right now, because this trade would certainly be something special.
The price tag on Kimbrel is significant. He is owed about $5.3 million after this year’s deadline and holds a club option for $16 million next year. Yes, that is a very large number, but it’s definitely a fair number given Kimbrel’s resume. The Phillies are currently $4 million below the $210 million luxury tax threshold. John Middleton is on record saying the Phillies would be willing to exceed the threshold for a “difference maker”. Craig Kimbrel is exactly that.
The Phillies bullpen has been terrible yet again this season. Holding an ERA north of four, they have certainly not helped the Phillies hold any lead over the first half of the season. Kimbrel would help this camp tremendously as he’s one of the best and most consistent closers in baseball.
Make it happen, Dave.
Mandatory Credit: Forbes
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